Bateman joins Cowboys after Wests Tigers release England international

[ad_1] Wests Tigers have confirmed England worldwide John Bateman will depart the membership to affix North Queensland on a two-year deal.

Bateman's future at Wests Tigers had been clouded however the 31-year-old's instant transfer to the Cowboys was introduced on Wednesday by way of a quick assertion.

"On behalf of everybody on the membership I need to thank John and want him all the easiest along with his future," Wests Tigers chief govt Shane Richardson mentioned in a press release.

Bateman had two years remaining on his Wests Tigers contract.

In the meantime, Cowboys officers mentioned they have been delighted to safe Bateman for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.

"Now we have been out there for an skilled ahead with the power to play both within the center or on an edge," Cowboys common supervisor of soccer Micheal Luck mentioned in a press release.

"John bases his sport round defensive intent and willingness to compete in each state of affairs, a few areas we have made no secret we need to enhance considerably on in 2025.

"Together with what he does on the sphere, we additionally imagine he will likely be a beneficial mentor for our youthful forwards in Heilum Luki, Jeremiah Nanai and Griffin Neame."

Bateman performed 32 NRL matches for Wests Tigers throughout two seasons.

He debuted within the NRL with Canberra in 2019, the identical 12 months the Raiders reached the grand remaining.

He was named the Dally M Second Rower of the Yr in his debut season however left the Raiders on the finish of 2020 to return to Wigan within the Tremendous League.